Irvine Dog Leash Laws Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Irvine Municipal Code Title 4, Division 9 (Animals) establishes leash requirements for dogs within the city. All dogs must be restrained on a leash, chain, or similar tether no longer than 6 feet in length when in any public place, including streets, sidewalks, parks, trails, open spaces, and the areas around UC Irvine, the Irvine Spectrum, and the Great Park. The leash must be held by a person who is physically capable of controlling and restraining the dog. Retractable leashes are permitted provided the effective lead length does not exceed 6 feet during use in public areas.

Irvine provides designated off-leash dog parks where dogs may exercise unleashed within enclosed fenced areas under their owner's supervision. Central Bark Dog Park at Mike Ward Community Park is the city's primary off-leash facility, featuring separate areas for large and small dogs, water stations, waste bag dispensers, and benches. Additional smaller off-leash areas are available at various community parks throughout the city. Dogs using off-leash parks must be current on vaccinations, licensed, and under voice control of their owner. Aggressive dogs must be removed immediately. Dog owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals in all public areas.

Animal control services for Irvine are provided through the City's contract with Orange County Animal Care (OCAC). Dog licensing is handled through OCAC and requires proof of current rabies vaccination. Licenses must be renewed annually. Spayed or neutered dogs receive a reduced licensing fee. Dogs found roaming at large — off the owner's property without a leash and without direct physical control — are subject to citation and impoundment by animal control officers. The nearest Orange County Animal Care shelter serving Irvine is located at 561 The City Drive South in Orange.

Many Irvine HOA communities impose additional pet regulations beyond city code. These may include leash requirements in HOA common areas (including community pools, clubhouses, and private walkways), breed or size restrictions, limits on the number of pets per household, and mandatory pet registration with the HOA. Some communities require that dogs be leashed even on the owner's front porch or patio if the area is not fully enclosed. These HOA rules are enforceable through the community's fine structure and are separate from city code enforcement.

Residents can report dogs at large, barking complaints, and animal welfare concerns to Orange County Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 or through the City of Irvine non-emergency line at (949) 724-7000.